Purdue Pete ? here in an earlier form ? will be up to his usual antics as the parade, game and other festivities inspire students, alumni and local residents to enjoy homecoming.

TODAY AND SATURDAY: The leaves are changing, people are firing up the grill for tailgate and alumni are making the journey back to campus. It's homecoming weekend at Purdue. But the fun isn't just for students and alumni. With so many great events, there's a little something for everyone.

If you're hanging around State Street and University Street on Friday evening, you might think you've been whisked into a story book. The 12th annual homecoming parade is called "Once Upon a Homecoming," and the theme is fairy tales.

Floats will represent student and community organizations, and you can look for Purdue Pete and the All-American Marching Band to pass by.

The route begins at Northwestern Avenue and West Columbia Street and goes west on State Street and north on University Street, ending at Mackey Arena. It starts at 7:30 p.m. Tianyi Zhang, director of homecoming for the student union board, said all are welcome.

"It's just a fun time for families to come celebrate the community and university," she said.

When: 7:30 tonight

Where: Along State and University streets in West Lafayette

How much: free

If you're looking to catch a little culture during the festivities, or if you're just looking for a warm indoor activity, Mo Trout, director of American Music Repertory Ensemble and the Lab Jazz Band, suggests listening in on the groups' concert.

The show, "Irving Berlin: Dean of American Popular Song," will focus on the music of the legendary American composer. The bands have been working since the beginning of the school year, and they will play many songs people will recognize, including "God Bless America" and "Top Hat, White Tie and Tails." The performance begins at 8 tonight at Loeb Playhouse. Trout said with many different events, the concert is good option.

"It's a completely different kind of entertainment," he said.

When: 8 tonight

Where: Loeb Playhouse, 128 Memorial Mall, West Lafayette

How much: free

If you're looking for another family option, come "Join the Chorus" for a celebration before the game. The event will include performances from many mainstays in Purdue culture, including the Purduettes and the Girls in Black. The All-American Marching Band will conclude the show with a march into Ross Ade Stadium.

When: 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday

Where: Between Armstrong Hall and Schleman Hall

How much: free

The Purdue Philharmonic Orchestra also is getting in on the musical fun. The orchestra will perform a homecoming concert at 8 p.m. Saturday at Long Center for the Performing Arts, 111 N. Sixth St. The show will feature many classics, including works by Prokofiev and Schumann, and it gives a taste of Purdue spirit and support in a different way.

When: 8 p.m. Saturday

Where: Long Center, 111 N. Sixth St.

How much: free

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Lots to do on campus for homecoming

TODAY AND SATURDAY: The leaves are changing, people are firing up the grill for tailgate and alumni are making the journey back to campus. It's homecoming weekend at Purdue. But the fun isn't just